RMS Lusitania sank in May 1915 as the result of a torpedo from the U-20. 1,198 people died that day as she sank in less than twenty minutes off the coast of Ireland. Built in 1907, she had a successful career of nearly eight years before that fateful day. Famous for her sinking, she was the fastest ship in the world when built, and was the first of the superliners. For the first time, Eric Sauder looks at her as a ship, and not just at her sinking. She was the first true 'Ship of State'. Subsidised by the British Government, she had luxurious interiors, double deck restaurants, glorious public rooms and sumptuous cabins. The cream of the world's high society travelled aboard her. Her sinking was a major factor in America's decision to enter World War One. This illustrated history looks at Lusitania in her true context as the finest ship afloat during her eight years.